Bio

FIDE Senior Trainer and one of the most respected coaches in modern chess, GM Ioan-Cristian Chirilă has been instrumental in the training of elite players, including World Championship challenger Fabiano Caruana. Known for his deep theoretical knowledge, meticulous preparation, and ability to develop competitive resilience, Chirilă leads the Mizzou Chess Team with a vision that blends championship-level standards and player-focused mentorship.

Accomplishments

• Russian Champion in the Under 8 age category
• Champion, 2016, and medalist, 2018, of the Russian Higher League Championship
• Winner of the Nutcracker chess tournament, 2016
• Participant of the Kortchnoi Zurich Chess Challenge Invitational super tournament, 2017
• Multiple winner and medalist of the Russian, European, and World Youth Chess Championships
• Medalist of the World Youth Chess Olympiad
• Qualified to the Chess World Cup, 2019

Bio

GM Grigory Oparin is one of the most accomplished grandmasters of his generation, with victories and top finishes in elite international competitions, including the Russian Higher League and the FIDE Grand Swiss. He is a key member of Fabiano Caruana’s team of seconds, contributing to preparation at the highest levels of world chess. At Mizzou, Oparin brings cutting-edge analytical skill, a wealth of competitive experience, and a modern, dynamic approach to the game.

Bio

Based in St. Louis, Alex Kerford is deeply engaged in both the chess and business communities. He serves as Executive Secretary of the United States Chess Trust, founder of the St. Louis Corporate Chess League, and President of the Young Friends Society of the World Chess Hall of Fame. A financial advisor with Edward Jones and active in local initiatives, Kerford blends his professional expertise with a passion for promoting chess and community engagement.

Bio

A sophomore at Mizzou and one of Norway’s most accomplished players of his generation, GM Aryan Tari is a two-time Norwegian Champion and the 2017 World Junior Champion. He has represented Norway on the top boards in multiple Olympiads and is regarded for his deep strategic understanding and competitive consistency on the international stage.

Bio

From Palermo, Italy, Tea Gueci became the youngest Italian Women’s Champion in history at just 12 years old. Now a Woman International Master and Olympiad veteran, she has represented Italy in multiple European and world team competitions. Known for her precise calculation and leadership, Gueci also brings valuable coaching experience, having worked as Chief Instructor for young talents in Italy.

Accomplishments

• Gold medal at European Team U14 Championship Rapid, 2015
• Silver medal Individual European Youth Rapid Championship Open Under 18, 2021
• Silver medal Team European Youth Rapid Championship Open Under 18, 2021 on the first board for Serbian Team
• Youngest Serbian Grandmaster ever
• Tied for first place and won Bronze medal at the World Junior Chess Championship, held in Mexico, 2023.

Bio

Born and raised in Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, Budisavljevic fulfilled all the requirements for achieving the Grandmaster title in 2020, at the age of 16, becoming the first Serbian who managed to get it before 17th birthday. At the same time, Luka managed to become the valedictorian, both in primary and high school, after which he joined Mizzou in August 2022.

Bio

One of Turkey’s brightest chess stars, GM Isik Can completed his Grandmaster title requirements while still a freshman at Mizzou. Now in his sophomore year, he continues to build on that early success, combining solid opening preparation with a fearless approach to complex positions. His achievements signal a long and distinguished career ahead.

Bio

An up-and-coming force in women’s chess, WIM Annmarie Muetsch has already claimed multiple youth titles and represented her country in top-level competitions. Known for her fighting spirit and rapid improvement, Muetsch is poised to become a major presence in both collegiate and international events.

Bio

Born in France in 2004, Mahel Boyer is one of Europe’s brightest young talents. He earned his Grandmaster title in 2025 after a series of strong international performances, including victory at the prestigious Open Cappelle-la-Grande. With a classical rating above 2530, Boyer is recognized for his sharp tactical instincts, fearless play, and ability to excel under pressure.

Bio

An emerging force from Mongolia, Amilal Munkhdalai holds the International Master title and boasts a classical rating of around 2410. His disciplined preparation, resourceful defensive skills, and capacity for sharp counterplay have made him one of Asia’s most promising young players. At Mizzou, he continues to hone his craft against top-tier collegiate competition.